Aides: Paterson urged to reconsider New York governor’s race

ALBANY, New York (AP) _ Two senior New York Democratic advisers said Sunday that top national party leaders have asked Gov. David Paterson to consider withdrawing from the 2010 governor’s race.

The New York Times reported Saturday that President Barack Obama requested that Paterson withdraw. The newspaper said political advisers made the suggestion and Obama approved it.

The advisers spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak for Paterson.

One of the advisers said that party leaders in Washington were concerned about Paterson’s political weakness, believing his office was too important to risk losing. The Democratic source was unsure what the governor’s response would be.

White House officials had no immediate comment.

As lieutenant governor, Paterson moved to the governor’s office in March 2008 with Eliot Spitzer’s resignation amid a prostitution scandal. Paterson has announced he will seek a full term in the 2010 election.